SISTERS

My Granddaughters inspired my poetry and photography today.

I Still Do

Like most girls, when I met my husband I had a list. You know "the list" that every girl hides in her secret place and takes out at night just before going to bed. Yup, I had one too. Funny thing is my husband didn't meet every criteria on my list. Believe it or not, there were a few things He just didn't measure up to. Now that I think about it, I don't remember it being a major melt-down kind of disappointment. Sure this guy I dated for a few months wasn't perfect; neither was I. I secretly wondered if I met all the criteria on his list. Do guys have lists? You better believe it! Anyway, back to my list...after 32 years of marriage (we'll be married 33 years come May 26th), I realize that if he would have had the traits I thought I wanted in a man, it would have been a sure road to disaster in our marriage. I put some things on my list that were just too much like me. I really didn't want someone like me! Heaven forbid! We would have KILLED each other! I'm so glad that my forever Valentine is pretty much the opposite of me. We balance each other out. My weakness is camouflaged by his strengths; and my strengths are appreciated in the face of his weaknesses. Did I think I would find someone perfect? If so, I certainly wouldn't have put some of my traits on that list.

So a little advice to you girls out there that are still looking for your special Valentine; pull that list out and mark off anything that looks remotely like you...better yet figure out the opposite of that trait and you will find someone that will fit your needs better. So, Happy Valentine hunting!

"You'll find the right one if you let God do the choosing" - Quoted from Debbie Saiz

Preacher's Kid

Okay, let's be honest. Life isn't always easy for PK's (Preacher's kids), but I'm sick and tired of all the negative stuff going around at our expense. I was a PK before I became a PW (Preacher's wife). I will admit that there were bumps in the road growing up in a pastor's home, but for the most part, it was a wonderful place to be nurtured in.

My home was a loving, godly, happy home. My parents made a point to keep a lot of the church "trouble" from us kids, for which I am very grateful. As role models for ministry, somehow my parents made ministry look enticing. I WANTED to be a preacher's wife. Sure there were times I struggled; like the time I threatened suicide to get a boy's attention, or the time I snuck off to a football game with my girlfriend and cruised the strip afterward making me miss curfew; or the time a "caring" saint said she would love to have me for a daughter-in-law if I wasn't so fat. But to be honest, these weren't PK related. These were "life" situations that could have happened to any teenager.

Yes, the minister's family does live in a glass house, but is that all bad? Perhaps we should all wish to be accountable to the public for our actions. It might just make this world a better place to live in. Living in a glass house helped me balance some of my otherwise unwise decisions. For example, I never stepped foot in a bar because I knew the impact this would have on my father's reputation as a local pastor. I don't really see this had a negative effect on my life; just the opposite! I have never had to wake up with my aching head stuffed in a toilet from a hang over. I've never had an alcohol drinking problem because I've never tasted the stuff.

In Highschool when my other colleagues were sauntering over to the local "pot hangout" I was waiting on the corner for my mom to pick me up and take me to our favorite taco place. Was that so bad? It cultivated a best-friend relationship with my mother I have to this day (she is now 80 years old). I don't think so. It saved me multiple visits to the principal's office and a stretch in the juvenile detention center. Am I sorry I never shared a joint with my friends? Of course not! I'm thankful I didn't get started on "harmless" weed and moved to more potent substances. I've never spent one night in a drug rehab "clean house" or woke up in bed with a stranger after a love-in with the pot heads and hippies.

Come on folks, let's be honest. The best place in the world for me to grow up was in a glass house. I was blessed to be a PK. It paved the way for me to be a PW. I will be grateful forever for the things I learned at the feet of my minister-drenched parents. It made me want to jump in and get wet too!

I love ministry and chose to raise my children in a Preacher's home. They are PK's too. I didn't raise them in my home as a punishment, keeping them  away from fun, freedom, and frequent fornication. No my friend, I gave them the joy of a non-disfunctional home! A home that offered peace during their troubled teen years, a good hot meal when they were flat broke and needed some grub, and open arms when life just wasn't fair and they needed a hug to reassure them that someone loved them unconditionally. I offered them a curfew to let them know that I cared about where they were and wanted them home safe in bed so I could sleep. Yes, I sheltered them but I'm not sorry, not one bit! Perhaps life was difficult for them too as teenagers, but life is difficult for everyone at times. I believe they had a better chance with two parents that loved each other, loved God and loved them than trying to survive in a dog-eat-dog world where parents beat their children behind closed doors because no one is looking.

I think I would rather have a glass house any day than one where no one knows what is going on because no one in the house is held accountable to anyone else. Give me accountability over self centered uncontrolled parents any day!

Elevator

My husband and I were attending a General Conference for our church in Columbus, Ohio. We chose to stay in a nice older hotel a small distance from the convention center to save a little money. The lobby was small but clean and inviting. The elevator doors were right off the lobby, easy to see at first sight. As I have been taught the many years of traveling, you must make the trip from your car to your room in one trip. So, with this uncompromised teaching fresh in my mind, my husband and I were both trying to maneuver two rolling suitcases, a hanging clothes bag, a snack sack, and a cooler not to mention my purse and computer case into the elevator. My husband was a gentleman and allowed me to step into the elevator first. We were headed to the eleventh floor. The elevator ascended quite slowly so we had plenty of time to discuss our schedule for the next two years (not really, but it was very slow). It was an old elevator and we barely fit with our luggage. When I heard the “ding” letting me know we had finally approached our floor, I worked feverishly trying to get my luggage behind me so I could pull it out the door. I looked up just as I saw my husband’s "hinder parts" leaving the elevator and the doors closing with me still in it. I don’t know what came over me. I guess I panicked. I began to  scream and punch the 11 button to no avail. As I jumped up and down and said “eleven, eleven, eleven!” nothing happened except I proceeded to be thrust at a very slow speed to the lobby floor. By the time I was safely delivered to the lobby floor the door opened (which I discovered at that time was quite fast), and a lobby full of people looking at me, I waved, and waited for the doors to shut again so I could take the long journey to the eleventh floor for the second time.

            Now un-be-known to me, my husband met the maid on his way to our room. He just commented “she'll be along in a minute” and snickering went to the room, shut the door and waited. Sure enough, several minutes later, I appear on the eleventh floor at last. As I pass the maid she asked, “your husband said you’d be along. Your room is right down the hall.” As I maneuvered my 15 bags past her (exaggeration), I heard her laughing. I made her day, not to mention my ROLF (rolling on the floor laughing) husband securely snug in our room!

Happy Birthday Open Letter

When you were born, you were such a beautiful baby. Now, you are a beautiful mother, minister, and woman of great faith. I'm proud to have you in my life sweet daughter. I will love you forever and pray that this dark time in your life will pass with great victory. May this day be a hallmark for a brighter future and may God grant your greatest wish today, a well, healthy husband. Steven is blessed to have you too! We love you both, but today is yours! Love you Marenda!
Love, Mom

Family Reunion

My Granddaughter and her daddy after two weeks of chemotherapy at Mayo Clinic.

Stinkin' Thinkin'

I turned my dishwasher on the other day and, Pew! The smell was awful! I tried to run extra water through the sinks and relieve my suffering nose from the stench but to no avail. After fixing supper last night, my sweet hubby was helping clear the dishes and put them in the dishwasher. When he tried to use the garbage disposal, it backed up and filled the sink with yucky water! YUCKY YUCKY water! Well, to make a long story short, he got it unplugged and we figured out why my dishwasher was stinking...it was the garbage disposal, not the dishwasher that had a problem. From now on, I will be careful not to put cut flowers down the garbage disposal. They are pretty in the vase, but when they get old, they can really stink!

Lord, help me get rid of my stinkin' thinkin' and focus my thoughts on things that are pure, things that are lovely and things that are of a good report. These good  things will unplug my heart of the decomposing thoughts that linger in my mind for too long and make my life stink! Help me to check my "garbage disposal" frequently so anything coming out of my mouth will be fresh and sweet.

Kneed some time!

For the past few days, I've been a little out of commission because of a bum knee. I know, I'm probably just getting old, but I had no idea how important my knees were until one of them decided to go on vacation for a few days! Cripping around the house, my husband waiting on me (which I might add was a real treat in spite of the pain), and leaving the dishes in the sink for a day was glorious! Well, maybe that is a little stronger word than I planned, but now that I look back and I'm cleaning house again, doing errands and getting back into the flow, I realize the few days I was down was a blessed break. So, I've come to say that I guess I kneed--ed the time off. Next time I "Kneed" some time, I will appreciate it more and complain less. Maybe.  

Christmas Decorations before Thanksgiving?

Many people are putting up decorations this week. I'm wondering how this affects my friends. For many years it used to infuriate me. But this year I'm thinking differently. I guess I'm getting older and time is just flying by every day! I'm thinking how much I love the family time, the lights and the focus on Jesus during the Christmas season. But alas, now it seems like it comes and goes so fast. I agree that we should be Thankful all year long, and I love the focus on family and thankful hearts at Thanksgiving. I'm not saying we should "ex" out Thanksgiving and replace it with Christmas, but what about combining them? Not only should we be thankful all year long, but I believe we should also celebrate the coming of Jesus Christ, the Messiah all year too. So, is it such a bad thing to make the season last a little longer by decorating early for Christmas?

Lahore, Pakistan

Meet my new friend, Amanda Scott! Isn't she beautiful? I'm enjoying our visit and so excited about being here with her in Lahore Pakistan.

Mindless Driving?

"I wonder if he is serious or just mindless driving?" My husband's comment after following a vehicle for several miles with the blinker flashing on, off, on, off, on, off, on, off, on, off (you get the picture)? It was quite impossible to determine the intentions of the driver ahead of us. We were unsure if it was safe to pass or should we stay a safe distance behind him just in case he actually did turn right from the left lane...

Mindless drivers. Driving to work. Driving to school. Driving to the lake, the church, a funeral. Driving, driving, driving. Radio blarring, phones lodged between their shoulder and ear, eyes glaring at nothingness as they maneuver a large vehicular machine down the highway.

I guess we have all been guilty of mindless driving. Have you ever found yourself at a destination with no recollection of the details along the journey? Were you talking on the phone, or singing your favorite song with the radio? Now, we would be quick to say that was not mindless driving. Or would we? Our mind was elsewhere...not on the road. Shutter! I don't know about you but I would hate to be on the same highway as a mindless driver. Whatever the case or the distraction, I hope we keep our minds and eyes on the road and reach our destinations safely. With that said, excuse me while I go get my mind before I get in the car. See you later!

Healer by Michael Guglielmucci

In spite of the scandal tainted history of this song, it's raw message still ministers to me.


You hold my every moment
You calm my raging seas
You walk with me through fire
And heal all my disease
I trust in You
I Trust in You

I believe You’re my Healer
I believe You are all I need
I believe You’re my Portion
I believe You’re more than enough for me
Jesus, You’re all I need


Nothing is impossible for You
Nothing is impossible
Nothing is impossible for You
You hold my world in Your hands

Gifts from God Today

I think maybe God sits up on his throne and thinks up things to do to surprise us with little special gifts from him. Today as I was working on my computer, my husband called me to look out the sliding glass door that leads to our swimming pool in the back yard. Majestically floating in large circular movements were two little ducks, enjoying the morning sun in our pool. The sun shining, the birds singing, and the small rippled waves from the movement in the water filled me wth a sense of peace. I just stood there for a while and watched them; so serene; so peaceful. Thank You, God for this special gift today. You are my Peace.

Fingerprints

Last week I spent several hours going around the house with my trusty homemade window cleaner; a bottle of rubbing alcohol with a sprayer on top. I cleaned all my windows and mirrors. Everything looked crystal clear. I even scaled the ladder and wiped the chandelier in front of the main entrance sparkling clean. When I got to the back sliding glass door, I hesitated. There unmistakably about two and a half feet from the floor were hundreds of little finger prints and hand prints made by my little granddaughter. Instantly I was transported to her past visit. I could see her standing at the door, looking out with bright inquisitive eyes, hands flared full width on either side of her face, with her nose pressed tightly against the warm glass. I smiled as the warm memories poured into my mind. If I didn’t have the hope of her coming again in a few days, I would be tempted to frame the prints rather than clean them. I thought of the fingerprints in my life.

There are memories of those who have left their residue of influence on me. With each one, I find myself thanking God for the small change it made. I am a better person since our paths have crossed. It was my choice to allow them to make a difference in my life. It is a blessing when we allow mentors and friends leave fingerprints on our lives. For each good person that comes into your life, let the fingerprints linger for a while. It not only makes for good memories, but it makes us better people.

Turn Around Slowly

I heard a song this week by David Kauffman. It was entitled, "Turn Around Slowly." I listened and cried because the chorus parroted my life right now. We (my husband and I) are in transition time. After 15 years in the beautiful state of California, we are moving.

Every day I'm experiencing things "for the last time." Just a month ago, I experienced my last Western District Ladies Conference as Secretary. This is my last semester at Christian Life College as an instructor and staff member. I am doing "last time" tasks for both jobs, Western District and Christian Life College. My last Landmark, my last TTCM Music conference, my last sectional conference, my last box to pack, my last quiz to give my students, my last order for Regalia for my last graduation ceremony. The list goes on. Every day brings a new, last.

Today it hit me again I perused through my e-mails. My wonderful friends on the Ladies Board have been including me in their fun, friendly banter with each other via e-mail. I've so enjoyed being the "mouse in the pocket" and watching the comments go back and forth, teasing, and having fun with each other. I want it to last. I'm the reluctant character moving off stage.

Oh, I'm very excited about moving close to my family, don't get me wrong. It will be wonderful to be near my beautiful daughter and granddaughter. And I will have my son close to me. How I miss his hugs. My parents will be close and my son-in-law is that second son I never had. I love them all so much. Yes, it will all be wonderful, but before I enjoy that, I have to work through some separation issues here. So I have chosen to turn around slowly.

I am trying to slow down the process in my mind because I'm leaving so many wonderful friends and experiences behind. So, my dear friends and family that read this, please be patient with me. I'm just trying to "Turn Around Slowly."

Turn around slowly.

Time is a racer.

The wink of an eye takes you from here to there.

Turn around slowly, and treasure your days here.

These precious moments may come to be rare.

Artist: David Kauffman
Album: Simple Truth

Apology from a Hero

I had admired her from the time I was a little girl. She could sing and play the piano and her life was somewhat a perfect persona to me. As I grew older, the comments of those around me were always positive. I didn’t know anyone who didn’t like her. She must have been perfect because there were no left over residue of flaws in the memories of others.

A situation came up and I was involved in a district function. In the process she must have done something that she felt would hurt me or …but after a particularly wonderful service at Ladies Conference, she came up to me and told me she had something to say. She apologized for her actions and asked me to forgive her. As far as I was concerned, there was no apology needed, but she insisted. She felt she had shown the wrong spirit and wanted to clear the air along with her heart. I quickly agreed to disperse forgiveness. As time passed, I realized that this humble rendezvous had not minimized the spirit of this woman in my heart, but it expanded my belief that she truly was a woman of God and had the heart of His kingdom in her best interests. What a privilege to be the recipient of an apology from one of my heroes. And you know what? She is taller, wiser, and more holy in my eyes today than before.

News News

Has it been four months since I posted? I'm ashamed! I have no excuses. I've been delinquent and that's that. So...to move forward...I do have news. My husband and I will be finishing out the academic year at Christian Life College and then we will begin our move to Gilbert, Arizona. We are taking the church my father has pastored for the past eight years.

It has been a bittersweet decision. Of course, we had to leave our precious church in Pleasanton. That congregation is now pastored by Stuart Young. They have partnered congregations for now, keeping the Pentecostals of Pleasanton alive technically, for how long, I do not know. But I do know that merging the churches has made a strong, larger, church in the tri-valley area. A church that has more power to reach the lost and hurting in that area. Isn't that what it's all about? Reaching the lost?

I'm experiencing many "lasts". This is my last semester to teach at Christian Life College. We had our last service in Pleasanton. This is my last Ladies Conference, my last ladies board meeting as Secretary. Bittersweet. Bitter to leave this place I've called home for the past 15 years and sweet because I will be close to my family. My parents, my brother and his family, my son, my daughter and her husband, and last but not least, my precious granddaughter. That is sweet!

Moving Forward Devotional

Last week I had an “aha” moment with God. After having the Holy Ghost for forty-seven years, I never dreamed that in this stage of my spiritual life I would grow with such a leap. I thought that was just for new converts or baby Christians. But we never stop growing in God. Each day brings fresh anointing and I’m frequently reminded that every day is “new” and exciting along this journey with God.

Moving Forward by Gayla Baughman
KYCC Devotional 11-12-08

Luke 9:62
But Jesus said to him, “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”

I’m not a farmer, but I’ve seen pictures of the old-fashioned plowing with an ox or horse. The one behind the animal has to concentrate on giving the animal direction to stay on course. If he stops, the horse stops, or worse heads for the barn or feeding trough. To take his mind off the rows he is plowing and look where he has come, is taking the risk of getting off course and eventually having to stop altogether to fix the mess he has made.

God is a God of the living. He is a progressional God. When Jesus walked on this earth he was post-modern. God’s ways are always going to be post-modern because he exists in eternity. His ideas and plan will be far above ours simply because of his omnipotence, all –knowing power. He sees the beginning from the end. He is alive and moving.

We must keep the course. We must constantly take inventory and see that we are moving ahead. If we are not making progress, if we are stagnated in our relationship with Him, it will seem that we are backsliding because he is moving. If he is moving and we are not, the distance between us becomes a chasm. Do you wonder why you can’t feel God? Do you wonder why you keep making the same mistakes? Could it be because you are not moving…living…allowing Him to perfect Himself in you?

Walk in the spirit. To walk is to move. It may not be flying, or running, but it is consistent and it is mobile. The Holy Bible quotes a letter Paul wrote to the Galatian church to help them outline the attributes of one who walks in the Spirit. This is what is says:

Galatians 5:16-25 I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

There is a song by Free Chapel that I love. The condensed lyrics are:

But a moment you have brought me to
Such a freedom I have found in you
You’re the healer who makes all things new
You have risen With all power in your hands
You have given me A second chance
Hallelujah Hallelujah
I’m not going back, I’m moving ahead
I’m here to declare to you My past is over
In you all things are made new
Surrendered my life to Christ
I’m moving, moving forward

Dear Lord, I don’t want to stay the same. Every time I step into Your presence whether it is in a church service, or during my private time of prayer, I want to be changed. I want to forever be progressing, moving, and changing to be like You.

Determination

I woke up this morning and said
As soon as I got out of bed,
"I'm so ugly and I'm so fat,
But today I'm going to do something about that!"

I'll eat dry toast and cut my starch,
I'll up my fiber and down my carbs.
I'll drink my water and watch my weight.
I'll walk a mile from my front gate.

Tonight when I lay the fat me down
I'll have the comfort I'm smaller now.
Determined with a mischief grin
I've started another diet again.

Wait Until Christmas

I’ve always hated those words.
Wait for presents
Wait for decorations
Wait for candy and sweets.
One Christmas my sister and I wanted some “cricket” shoes. They were the most popular thing for girls our age. We couldn’t wait until Christmas. One day after school we were admiring the beautifully decorated silver tree. A color ball, discretely hidden in the corner threw a prism of different colors on the tree. The silver tree reflected a rainbow into the room. Then our eyes fell on some packages that looked about the size of a shoe box with our names on them. We carefully unwrapped them, making sure not to tear the colorful wrapping paper. Viola! There were our shoes! The smell of fresh leather, the slick new brown finish made an unforgettable memory. I was so excited. Then it dawned on me. I now know what I’m getting for Christmas. This wasn’t fun anymore. The excitement was gone and now we had to figure out how to “act like” we didn’t know when the day to open presents came along. Needless to say, we never fooled Mama one minute. When we opened the shoes, she knew we knew. The disappointment on her face will forever haunt me. I stole her happiness as well as my own. When someone wants to surprise me now, I make a decisive effort not to spoil their joy. I’ve learned that curiosity not only kills the cat, but can also leave others hurting.

Our Music Angel

In the Mouth of a Child

My daughter wrote:

Today Madison (my granddaughter) started singing in her highchair while I cleaned the kitchen(like she normally does), only this time I could actually tell what she was singing! I was almost blown off my feet with amazement! By the way - the song was "Arise" - she LOVES that song!
Still can't believe that my 15 month old was singing "arise" as if she were a praise singer. It was an INCREDIBLE moment!

I just want to remind those with small children that when you "train up a child in the way he should go, when he is old, he will not depart from it" (Proverbs 22:6). From the time they are born, sing songs of Jesus to them. It is such a blessing to hear that my little granddaughter is singing a song like "Arise" rather than some Mother Goose rhyme. I'm proud of my daughter. This is a reflection of her dedicated effort to leave a legacy to her child. KUDOS!

Marenda...you've made Mom proud!

Arise
Paul Baloche, Don Moen
One thing we ask of you
One thing that we desire
That as we worship you
Lord come and change our lives
Arise, Arise, Arise, Arise,
Arise, take your place be enthroned on our praise
Arise King of Kings Holy God as we sing,
Arise! Arise!

©2003 Integrity's Hosanna! Music
All rights reserved. International copyright secured.
CCLI song #4032337

A Miracle Tool

I was with my Granddaughter a few weeks ago and we took a lot of pictures. I took pictures of her eating. I took pictures of her sleeping. I took pictures of her laughing. I took pictures of her with her mommy, my daughter. I took pictures of her with her papa. We even got a few pictures of her with her gammy….yours truly.

Needless to say, one of my favorite pictures of her is when I was holding her and her mommy was the photographer. She was very attentive to what mommy was doing, so the picture was a beautiful shot of my little granddaughter looking straight in to the camera. Poof! It was a perfect shot! At least I thought so until I enlarged it to put it as a desktop background on my computer. That’s when I noticed a blemish as big as Dallas on my forehead!

Well, I have this new little program on my computer that lets you touch up pictures. It is a little miracle tool! It is called a clone stamp. It allows you to pick up the color from a perfect area and replace the imperfect area. What a miracle tool! So that’s what I did. I took that blemish right off my forehead. You would never know it was ever there! Isn’t that neat? Something to make blemishes disappear!

I have bigger blemishes on my life; blemishes that have not only hurt me, but hurt other people. Blemishes on my heart are permanent scars of the sins that I chose. Things that hurt my family, my friends, and most of all my God. I could never do anything to make those ugly sins disappear.

But you know what, there is a miracle tool! It is the blood of Jesus Christ. His blood is a clone stamp. It takes the precious crimson blood and makes us white as snow. You know why it turns our hearts white rather than red? Because his blood was sinless. It was pure. It was the only blood that could wash us clean.

Psalm 51:7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow

1 Peter 2:24 who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.

Awww. Real Tears

I Can't

Would you believe that my granddaughter is talking? She is now 14 months old, walking with the help of anyone's fingers nestled in those two little chubby hands. She could let go and walk, but has beyond-a-shadow-of-a-doubt let us know that she can't. That's right...clearly said and frustrated to the limit she cried, "I can't." The tears flowed and we all responded with amazement.

Is "I can't," going to be the first words of this little amazing creation? At first I thought so, but as I look over the family videos and DVD "papa" made, I hear some other wonderful phrases clearly from this little wonder kid. "Love you," "Okay," "Bye," are all a part of her vocabulary, not to mention she has mastered the majic of signing "please," "eat," and "more plesase." So, I'm breating a little easier now that I have figured out "I can't" is NOT her first words.

What does a child have to look forward to if "I can't" is her first words? Do we spend a lifetime convincing her she can? Do we ignore the cry of the little giver uper? No, we just laugh and go on. Literally, we just laughed. Well, at first we were amazed that she said it. Coming from a very positive mother and father, I couldn't imagine where she could have picked it up...but she did and in her short 14 months of life she put it together and knew what it meant.

Alas, there will come times in her life that she will cry, "I can't." But we will be there, encouraging her to take another step, telling her to try again, brush herself off and face the world. We will be there to help her understand that of course she can't. She can't do anything without the help of God. We will be there to remind her that when she feels she is not able to do something, her trust is not in her own ability, it is God's ability to empower her. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." I can't wait to hear her quote that verse.

Jes Checkin'

Yup! There you are, sittin' at yer computer. Hope you have a wunnerful day!

Check out my Slide Show!

Father's Day

Although my father will probably never read this, I want to give him honor. I've been blessed with the most compassionate, most caring father. As a pastor of a small church, he was busy raising four small children, pastoring a church and working full-time as a barber in our home town of Pocatello, Idaho. Yet, on one of the busiest days of his week, he took the time to take us kids to the park on Sunday afternoon between church services. Now I look back and realize the sacrifice he made just so we could lay on a crisp hand sewn quilt and watch the clouds slowly drift by. It was as if we had all the time in the world. Memories like this one caress the lining of my soul and warm my heart today.

Thank you, Daddy, for being a great example to your children. I will always love and respect you for the sacrifices you made to make my childhood full of rich, precious memories.

Your loving daughter,

Gayla

Sharing

Sharing, I'm learning sharing

If you're without now

I'm learning caring.

I'm sharing, I'm learning sharing

Like Jesus taught me

I'm learning caring.

Sharing...or NOT

So, the boy always has to hold the book? I DON'T THINK SO!!!!!!

New Favorite

One year old and living life to the fullest! This picture just had to be posted. It is my new favorite! Isn't she a scream? She has just enough hair to put into ponytails...and the shades just kill me! I love 'em! This kid is more fun than a barrel of monkeys (of course, I've never been in a barrel with monkeys...but I have been in a car with my grandbaby). You should hear her laugh. It is contagious! Ha Ha. See what I mean? Ha Ha!

Something about a son.

I don't know what it is, but when I'm with my son there is a special feeling going on in this Mother's heart. I can never get enough time with him. I want to just sit and look at this young man that was once my baby. He still makes me smile. He still makes me proud. He still makes me wonder what I did before he came into my life. The sleepless nights when he was sick are only a distant memory. The laughter when he tried to walk for the first time still lingers and tickles the corner of my heart. My contented son. Once my baby, now my young man. I love him more than I can say. I pray every day that his life will give glory to God. He is talented, funny, real and gifted. He is chosen by God to do something very special in His kingdom. I can't wait to see what God is going to do next in his life.

Hang Loose!

As a college professor, I try to keep a good relationship with my students. Culminating another wonderful year, our choir sang some beautiful songs at the graduation last Saturday. At the end of a very beautiful piece, I stood up to face the choir behind me. I wanted to let them know what a great job they did and how much I loved them. I used some common sign language to get my message across without distracting the audience. My first “sign” went quite well, I might mention. I gave them the common “thumbs up” sign and mouthed “awesome job” with a big smile. Then I attempted to give them the more difficult “I love you” sign. As I stood there facing them in full regalia, yes, cap, gown, tassel and bachelor hood, this fifty+ professor of Social Etiquette, gleefully waved the Hawaiian “hang loose” sign. When I realized I was waving the wrong sign, it was too late; the choir was laughing out loud and I was as red and the velvet stripe on my hood. What a day.

I love this picture! Like mommy like daughter.

The Plug

A miracle tool. I don't know why it works. It doesn't really taste good, but it keeps me occupied while I try to figure out if I want to keep it plugged in! Ha!

Mommy and Me

Mommie and me are friends forever. She shared the color of her eyes with me.

Angel's Kiss

There's nothing like an angel's kiss. It brushes your cheek so sweetly and leaves it's fragrance on your soul.

Delinquent Data

So sorry I've been out of pocket. My dear friend informed me tonight that I REEEAAALLLYY need to update the pictures on this blog. So I shall do my best to accommodate her request. I guess that is the least I can do for the privilege of my friends visiting this site. Thanks so much and I promise I will try to do better.

Airport Jubilee!

We just couldn't resist getting that little grandbaby in our arms at the airport. What a joy!

Annual Conference

I've had some very special guests at my house this week. Christian Life College sponsors an annual Landmark conference each year at this time. Preachers from all over our country come to this great conference. Some of them are renowned and to Pentecostals are somewhat of a household word. Famous men like Lee Stoneking, Wayne Huntley, Kenneth Haney, Gordon Mallory, and many more. To me, there are none greated than the visitors I was honored to host in my home.

On Friday before the conference started I rushed to the airport to meet two very important people. My daughter and granddaughter. Of course, you know I threw out the red carpet, rented a lemo (which in truth is a white Taurus...I'm still dreaming for a Lincoln) and whisked them off to the Baughman castle near Honey Bear Lane.

Three days later the Elder and Mrs. A.J. Baughman joined us in our celebration. It was the first time the paternal great grandparents were introduced to this beautiful little girl. She did not disappoint us. With arms waving through the air and a big smile that covered her face from cheek to cheek, she made the great grandparents feel like a million bucks in the first few moments of introductions. Their hearts were captive as our already were the moment they laid eyes on her.

We had three full wonderful days to share with this little angel and her equally loved mommy. There is nothing like a great conference to bring your families together.

Happy New Year!

Christmas Palms

Christmas is right around the corner. The lights are going up, the shops are playing "Silver Bells" and the traffic has increased as people do their holiday shopping. I must say this year is going to be a wonderful year. As we move closer to the day we celebrate the birth of our Christ, I'm reminded of the Christmas memories I have of years past. One particular Christmas, I was just a little girl. We traveled all the way from my home town in Pocatello, Idaho to the balmy streets of Richmond, California. I loved the contrast. We left the drifting snow and freezing wind behind. We all got in our old station wagon and traveled over the mountains and down through the beautiful Redwoods. Finally, after what seemed like days to me, I would spot some of the first Palm trees on our journey. The sun was shining, and the weather looked more like Spring than Winter. I started my love affair with California on those annual Christmas treks. I love the country, I love the weather, but most of all, I love the Palm trees rising majestically toward the sky. Anticipation began to make this little girl fidget in the backseat of the car. I knew we were getting close to grandma's house. I wanted to get out and run. No icy pavement, no bulky car coat! Freedom! It was a mark of anxious anticipation, those palm trees so long ago.

Today the California palm tree is still my favorite. Although it seems it would be difficult to decorate one for Christmas, some have figured how to frost them with lights. How beautiful the palm with lights! Oh how I love California Christmas Palms!

Look what I found! A real Christmas Palm! Whooppee!

Thanksgiving Memories

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving. My mother was here with us after she and I travelled to Oregon to be with my sister for surgery. By the way, my sister is doing great. She had a thyroidectomy and all the tests have come back negative for cancer. Thank You Jesus!!!
Anyway, several of my friends have asked for this great recipe for cranberry salad. I thought I would share it with you here.

Cranberry Salad

1 package fresh cranberries
1-1/2 cups sugar
1 large package raspberry Jello
1 cup boiling water
1 can crushed pineapple (drained)
¾ cup diced celery
2 apples (grated)
½ cup pecans

Preparation time: 15 minutes. Servings: 12.

Grind or chop cranberries in blender or food processor. Work sugar into cranberries until completely dissolved. Dissolve Jello in boiling water and add to cranberries. Add pineapple, celery, apples and nuts. Chill for a few hours before serving.

I'm Glad I Have Friends

This poem is dedicated to all of you who have left comments on my blog.
I love you, my friends!

Everytime you write a note
Everytime you smile
I wonder what I've done to merrit
Youre friendship in my life.

You bring me so much joy
Every word is sweet to read
I thank the Lord for you, my friend
And for bringing you to me!

Mommy and Madison

Happy Days

I don't know when I've been so happy. Madison, my little granddaughter is everything I could hope for. You see, she is my precious daughter's baby. I think that is why I love her so much. She is an extention of my love for my own little girl.

Most of the time she reminds me of my daughter, but sometimes, in a wave of precious delerium, she is just Madison. Her smile is her own...her little faces are truly original. That is when I'm reminded that God in all his magnificance has created each one of us uniquely. Every time I get a chance to be with my little Madison, I am reminded that God is the creator of beautiful wonderful life! Thank you Jesus!

The Joy of Grandparenting

Blue Eyes

Blue eyes shine with innocence

and the day is brighter.

Blue eyes show her trust and I cry

becuse I know she will someday hurt.

Blue eyes look into my soul

and I know that this little girl is a gift...

Blue eyes keep shining.

Blue eyes keep loving, and someday

you'll look into the face of your baby

and see...Blue eyes.

Here's Looking At You!

My Children

Is this not captivating? I feel like I can look my little granddaughter in the eye and talk to her. I just had to share this with you. This is also her mommy and daddy. I think they make a beautiful family (I would'nt be prejudice).

SIS Cruise

We have a wonderful time on our SIS cruise. I had the pleasure of sharing a cabin with my beautiful Mother. I love this lady so much. The older I get the more I realize the value she is in my life. Her walk with God is such a great example for me. I have never met someone so full of faith. I love my Mom. Here is a picture of her on the cruise.

Madison is my Angel

I know you are probably rolling your eyes right now. Another Grandma blogging bla bla about her grandchild. Really, I didn't understand until I was one. Don't knock it until you've tried it. Can I get a witness from all you grandmas out there? It is truly the most wonderful experience (aside from receiving the Holy Ghost!) that I can think of. Here's another picture of our little angel. I got to go to Youth Congress to babysit. it was wonderful! I had Madison all to myself everyday! It was kodak moment after kodak moment!

To all my grandma friends out there...if you think you can top this one, send a pic of your angel to me...I'd love to compare. hee hee.

Thank God for Technology!

I cannot describe how I feel today. I feel blessed and yet depressed, I feel elated and yet deprived. What is this strange spectrum of feelings that possesses me? A little voice speaks through the humdrum of my thoughts, “You’re a Grandma now.” Oh, that makes sense. Menopause has left me hot and grouchy…hot flashes are coming and going like the blinker on my white Taurus, and my poor husband is never really sure I’m going to laugh at his jokes, or cry because…well, I don’t even know the because of it!. What I needed was a pick-me-up. Being a new Grandma was just what I needed to reward this ole’ gal.

It has been a few weeks since I left my precious granddaughter and resumed my normal routine, work, sleep, work, sleep, work, sleep. Life just seems to drag by. I live on the precious memories and the pictures of my little princess. I never dreamed I could love someone as much as I love my own children. I just never allowed the thought to germinate. I love my kids, probably to a fault if a parent can love them that much. On second thought, I don’t think you can love your kids too much…I have found one that I love as much…my little grandchild.

I’m missing her tonight. I’ve moved from “wish I could see her” to “I’m depressed.” She is growing up without me and that is a tragedy. Of course, she is only one month old, but hey, she is probably a whole pound heavier, she smiles now and shows more personality. I feel like the proverbial actress missing the curtain call! (And all the long distance Grandma’s said Amen!)

We have tried to make the transition away from our little grandbaby as painless as possible. Thanks to a very technological husband, my days are much more bearable. We bought my daughter a webcam. That way, we can “see” them when we talk. It is really amazing! The first time Marenda brought Madison to “see” Grammy and Grampy, she seemed so close I could almost reach out and touch her. Oh, what a wonderful thing to live in the era of technology! I’m so blessed.

Dedication Dress

Madison was dedicated in the dress her Mommy was dedicated in 25 years ago. She was also dedicated being held in the blanket her Daddy was dedicated in 27 years ago. What a beautiful heritage. Her parents were dedicated to God and now she is given the same gift. We are so proud of her and her parents!!!

More about Madison

I hope you are not getting tired of hearing about Madison...but I'm not tired of bragging yet. Here is a cute little picture of her just before going to church.

Madison's Dedication

Madison's Birth Day!

Click HERE for more pictures of Madison's BirthDay!

Baby Sullivan

I can't sleep. I'm up at 5:00 a.m. the day after. Let me tell you about it:

The sun was up early yesterday. It seemed anxious to shine on the western desert, warming our day for the welcome celebration of our first grandbaby. Somehow words are illusive when I try to express the anticipated, not so patient, waiting for her to come. Ten days early, she decided to prove many of us wrong and stay with her little head nestled against her mommy's heart!

Surgery was scheduled for our little breech baby, June 1st, 2007 at 7:30 a.m.

We met the sun with anticipated excitement, took pictures as the new-to-be Daddy and Mommy left to go to the hospital. The doctors told us to wait until later because they would not allow us to go in before surgery (which was NOT true, but that is another story! and I'm NOT bitter...no I'm not, no I'm not).

I couldn't contain myself. A naturally curly smile pasted itself on my face and I have not been able to control it since...you'll see.

We arrived at the hospital at 7:30 a.m. The family filled the waiting room which was a first for this little private hospital in Paradise Valley, Arizona. Great Grandma, and Grandpa were there, Aunts Uncles, Cousins and best friends crowded the small room. We chatted, laughed, (I smiled), watched the door and kept our phones close for any texting from the new Daddy who was with the new Mommy.

Suddenly, my son-in-law (Daddy to be) showed up at the door! "Want to see her?" What a silly question....he was now a Daddy and looked like he was about to jump on the roof and announce it to the world! We, being a polite family, kept him from ruining his reputation as an easy going, quiet man (are we talking about the same man here?)

We all bombarded the door. Thankfully we are a very polite family, so everyone stood back as I propelled myself across the floor, shoving cousins against the wall, stepping on Great Grandma and Grandpa's feet, and slamming others against the door jam. Never, never, never, stand between a grandmother's first view of her first grandbaby! It can be very dangerous. Ask my very polite family...they will tell the truth!

Seriously, I ran into the hall. There in the middle of the hallway was the most beautiful, most elegant, most terribly upset baby girl I have ever seen. She had her mouth wide open, her eyes clinched shut, and was mustering up the loudest most aggressive protest to this cold, noisy world with a million eyes peering down at her through the clear glass of her new "square" womb. What a rude entrance to a new world!

Honestly, she is the most beautiful baby I've ever seen. How can this be? I had two of the most beautiful babies over twenty years ago...now this one takes the cake! She is gorgeous! Her little round head is perfect with a soft crop of dark brown hair. She doesn't cry much...now that the initial shock of entering this cold world is over. She has little hands, little feet (well, that is debatable), but they look little to me, and beautiful eyes that melt this grandma's heart!

Keep posted...there's more to come. As soon as the sleepy Grandpa wakes up, I'll post some pictures...he has the camra in the bedroom charging up for more pics today! Woohoo!

Madison Nevaeh Sullivan

First born of Steven & Marenda
June 1st @ 8:24am
8lbs - 20 1/2 inches

Pictures coming soon!

Grandbaby has come!

Dear friends, world, universe!

I didn't know it would feel this way.
I didn't have a clue!
I cried when I laid eyes on her
I tell you what is true.

She inspires me to write
She inspires me to sing,
She wriggled down inside my heart
The deepest part of me.

Upsprang joy and laughter
Upsprang care caressed
Upsprang the deepest love
For this little princess.

Yes, I'm singing loud
Yes I dance around!
Yes, I'm trying to express that
I'm a Grandma Now!!!

My Grandbaby is coming!

I'm leaving for Arizona on Monday. It looks like our little Madison is breech...so I may have a baby by Friday, June 1st. My daughter is okay with this. C-section has its advantages. We will have the baby ten days early...and no labor pains. Woohoo! I will keep posting and add pictures when the great day arrives.

I just can't believe that I'm finally going to be a grandma. What are your thoughts on what she should call me? I'm leaning toward Gamma. It would be fun to hear what your grandchildren call you.

Afternoon Tea

I had a wonderful afternoon with a little friend of mine. Her name is Hannah and we had tea at my house, just Hannah, her mama and me. It was wonderful! We enjoyed being together because she used to come to my church. Now her family have started a new church in Livermore and it is doing great...only I really miss her sometimes. So we spent the afternoon together and it was wonderful. Thanks Hannah for coming to tea, and bringing your mom along!

Creative Writing

I am the instructor of a very interesting class. Creative Writing. Yup, you guessed it! I'm teaching a creative writing class. You may ask, "how do you teach students to be creative?" I've asked myself that question probably a million times. I don't think I can. But I'm hoping that I can simply inspire my students and the "Creator" will flow through their brains and sudden inspiration will explode throughout the writing abyss of the soul. Sound scary? It really isn't once you've experienced the phenomonom of inspiration. I keep telling my students that the lives you touch with the written word far surpasses the glimpses of pulpit opportunity. Writing can cross the miles, it spans cultures and traditions. Writing opens oceans of thought to those you would never hope to come in contact with. Writing is the expression of the soul, the wonder in the imagination, the dream come alive on paper. Now that you're here, share some inspiration by leaving a comment. I'd love to read what you have to say.

Our Baby Girl

This may seem strange to you...if so, you are not a grandma! Ha! I always knew I would whip out my pictures of my grandchildren, when I finally had some. Well, now I am going to have one and I want you to see her picture. We call her Baby Love. She looks like she is going to have her Mama's nose...which in loving retrospect is just like her great great grandma on her mama's side. The legacy lives on! I'm amazed how God does this! Isn't it a miracle...the miracle of life. Thank you God for your magnificence!

As Time Goes By

Look beyond the window and watch the season pass
What once snow made a blanket white, spring brings a verdant grass.
Wish away the present rushing through this life,
And miss the joy of today,
As time goes by
As time goes by.

Look beyond the window and see how time has passed
Fondest memories recollect that life goes on so fast.
Don’t wish away the present and rush through precious life.
Don’t miss the joy of just today,
As time goes by
As time goes by.

For time will not be measured in success or eloquent tongue.
Time is measured in memories from sun to setting sun.
Make a point to measure time by happiness in your life,
And pour in every moment,
As time goes by
As time goes by.

Your time can now be measured.
Your legacy will live on.
Your laughter will ring through ages
The birds will sing your song.
Yes, you will make your mark on time’s relentless cry.
And prove what things are eternal.
As time goes by
As time goes by.

As Time Goes By
By:Gayla M. Baughman
2-21-03

Proud Grandparents to be!

Proud Parents to be

It's a Girl!

Not too long ago I found out the wonderful news that my daughter is having a baby. Yes, I'm so excited I could run through a troop and leap over a wall! Now, just this week, we found out that she is having a little girl!! Whooppee!! Chantilly lace, here we come! Oh. I guess I better settle down. I do have to consider that she has a mother and she may not want to dress her little girl in frills and lace. Well, at this point, I don't care. I can deal with that. Just let me make some bows and lacey things, and when I'm gone, burn them for all I care. Just let me expend my grandmotherly energy on this precious little bundle of miracles! Yahoo! I just had to tell someone and you're it!

Mama Eagle and the Empty Nest

I watched the red glow of tail lights turn the corner and disappear. The bright moon silhouetted my husband’s solitary form against the neighbor’s garage door. He looked lonely standing in the middle of the road watching our children move out of state. A part of life was changing for us. A part of life I had always dreaded. Now goodbye was a reality and I was waving to a truck that would take my daughter and her husband many miles away. Tears streaming down my cheeks I knew life was taking its natural course, but I was kicking all the way! I did not want them to go. Why couldn’t they stay here? Others have their children living in the same town, they have their grandchildren close and they all live happily ever after…or so it seems.

It has now been five years since that fateful day. I can’t say the pain in my heart is less, but I have resolved to survive with some dignity. The tears are gone and I’m strong because my children need me to be. They want to be with me as much as I want to be with them. I understand that now as the daughter of parents far away.

I can see now that God had a hand in the move. My children have grown in maturity and ministry. The church they work in is their heartbeat. They talk about the wonderful ministries they are involved in, the hours of work they spend for others…for ministry.
I wonder, would they have grown and been so happy in the kingdom of God here? I will never know the answer to that question, but I do have some answers to my own. They couldn’t stay here because they needed to be their own family. They needed to be independent to spread their wings. They needed to fly away from my nest so that they could prepare a nest of their own.

Now I have a grandbaby on the way. Yes, I’m so excited I could scream at the top of my lungs, run around in circles and bump into walls, but I am maturely abstaining from such a response. I just quietly move from day to day, counting each week and looking forward with wide-eyed excitement for the day I will be with my first-born as she delivers her first-born. This is a wonderful Season of my life, and I’m enjoying the trip.

Tribute to Daddy

Daddy

You are such a dear to me
I’ve never been without you.
You were there at my first step
Cheering me on with laughter.

You are the one who taught me
To hold my first guitar.
You placed my fingers on the strings,
Oh how the music came alive!
You’re the one who answered me
When I asked about the birds and bees
And smiled rather coyly
When Mama said,
“She asked you.”

You showed me how to climb that mountain
Called the Ross Park slide
And took me to the theme park there
To let me ride the rides.
I never felt deprived
Or poorer than other folks,
When pastoring a small church
In southern Idaho.
A pastor’s kid I cherished
Because of your great attitude,
Your love and devotion to the ministry
Made me want to live like you.

Now years have passed and time has stolen
Your beautiful dark brown hair,
But white sure does become you
Your as handsome to me as ever.

My thoughts are fond as I now ponder
Growing older I can see
The blessing of a Godly father
Lasts through eternity.


Lovingly written by
Gayla M. Baughman
on her celebration of her father’s 50th Father’s Day.
June 13, 2005

Tribute to Mom

Disconnected!

I’ve been having a lot of trouble with my internet server at home. I can’t use my wireless on my computer…..I have to go over and unplug the router from the wall before my cable will detect a signal and let me connect through the land line……I’m just not connecting! It is very frustrating.

Have you ever felt disconnected?

Have you walked into a room full of people and felt alone? You didn’t know anyone. You scan the crowd for one friend but alas….not one face looks familiar? It is a miserable feeling to feel like an outsider.

Sometimes we just need one contact or one connection to make us feel a part. Don’t you hate these parties where you are forced to sit at a table with strangers? I’m very outgoing, but I hate them too….I make friends with strangers on my turf…know what I mean?
If one person reaches out to you it makes all the difference in the world! Suddenly you see one familiar face! That familiar face immediately becomes your valued friend….why? Because compared to all the other people in the room, this is the only person you know (even a little). But that little is a lot when compared to the others.

The friendship connection begins with just a small common denominator. Perhaps it was a common home town, or you both were the oldest child. Perhaps it was someone you both knew back when…..perhaps you both have teen-age children. Whatever the denominator, you are now connected!

Don’t wait for someone else to be the initiator. Look for that common denominator at the next party you go to. Be the connection that someone else needs to feel a part of the excitement of the evening. You never know when you have made a life long friend just by taking one moment and making a connection.

Just Wanted You To Know

Just wanted you to know
Whenever you’re in need
That wherever you may go
You have a friend in me
Beyond a shadow of a doubt
Thought I needed to tell you so
After thinking it all out
Just wanted you to know
by: Gayla M. Baughman

Life Goes On

Don't you wonder why The birds still fly so high. When things aren't going well And you wish that you could die? The morning comes, the sun still shines And the moon shows up right on time They don't seem to know That tears are in your soul And life just goes on.